Traffic Tip: Motorcyclists need to know laws regarding helmets

By By David Brogger
April 28, 2013 at 9:02 p.m.Updated April 27, 2013 at 11:28 p.m.

This week's traffic tip is in regards to the Texas Transportation Code 661.003, offenses relating to not wearing protective headgear.

Why this specific code and how does it relate to driving in Victoria?

This is the time of year to dust off your motorcycles and go for a ride. It's also recommended that you dust off your motorcycle riding safety gear as well.

Did you know that in Texas, an operator or passenger on a motorcycle is required to wear a helmet? There are some exceptions to this law, which are as follows:

You must be 21 years of age or older and

You must have completed a motorcycle operator training and safety course, or

You must be covered by a health insurance plan providing the person with medical benefits for injuries incurred as a result of an accident while operating or riding on a motorcycle.

So, if you are under 21, wear a helmet no matter what. If you're 21 or older, you must wear a helmet unless you meet one of the above requirements.

Also, make sure your helmet meets or exceeds the safety standards prescribed by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The Victoria Police Department Traffic Safety Unit invites citizens to inform us of any traffic issues that you observe. The easiest way to do this is go to our website, victoriapd.com, then go to the VPD Customer Service Request tab in the center of the page and follow the directions.

If you have a traffic law question, contact Senior Police Officer David Brogger, Victoria Police Department Traffic Safety Unit, at 361-485-3700.